Small Mammal Diversity Across Habitat Types in Northern Minnesota

Abstract

The structure and composition of a small mammal community is largely shaped by that of the plant communities in which they reside. Even closely related species may have substantially different requirements or preferences for food and cover. Northwestern Minnesota has a variety of habitats in relatively close proximity. The prairies and forests merge most noticeably in what is sometimes referred to as a vegetation tension zone; an approximately 90km wide band that runs up through the state (Eggers&Reed1997). The tension zone’s eastern edge just reaches Itasca State Park. Glacial activity and the subsequent effects of hydrology and climate have created this wide spectrum of plant communities. These include, but are not limited to: dry, mesic, and wet prairies, deciduous, mixed, and coniferous forests, swamps and bogs, as well as riverine and shallow water aquatic habitats. Not surprisingly many species of small mammals have found niches within these varied habitats.